Alzheimer Caregiver Stress Resources in Atlanta

Alzheimer Caregiver Stress Resources in Atlanta

Alzheimer caregivers report that they frequently experience high levels of stress. Too much stress can be damaging to both a caregiver and the person with Alzheimer�s. If you experience some of these signs of stress on a regular basis, consult your doctor. Ignoring them can cause your physical and mental health to decline.

Symptoms of caregiver stress:

* Denial
* Anger
* Social withdrawal
* Anxiety
* Depression
* Exhaustion
* Sleeplessness
* Irritability
* Lack of concentration
* Health problems


Caregiver Stress Check.Take our quiz and get a personal list of resources to help manage stress. Be a healthy caregiver

* Taking care of yourself is one of the most important ways to be a healthy caregiver.

* Know what resources are available. Adult day care, in-home assistance, visiting nurses and Meals-on-Wheels are just some of the services that can help you.

* Become an educated caregiver. As the disease progresses, new caregiving skills are necessary. Find information onalz.org or contact Assisted Living Locators Atlanta . in all Atlanta

* Get help. You are not failing as a caregiver by asking others for assistance. Seek the support of family, friends and community resources. Alzheimer's Association support group meetings are a good source of comfort and reassurance. Or you can join an online community.

* Take care of yourself. Watch your diet, exercise and get plenty of rest. Make time for shopping, lunch with friends or even a golf outing. Take advantage of community services such as adult day care or in-home companion services to care for your loved one while you take a break.

* Manage your stress level. Stress can cause physical problems and changes in behavior. If you experience symptoms of caregiver stress, use relaxation techniques that work for you, and consult your doctor.

* Accept changes as they occur. People with Alzheimer's change and so do their needs. They often require care beyond what you can provide on your own. Look into care services such as in-home caregiver services and residential care.

* Do legal and financial planning. Consult an attorney to discuss legal, financial and care issues. If possible and appropriate, involve the person with Alzheimer's and other family members.

* Be realistic. Many of the behaviors that occur are beyond your control and the control of the person with Alzheimer's. Grieve your losses, but also focus on the positive moments.

* Give yourself credit, not guilt. You are doing the best you can. Don't feel guilty because you can't do more. Your loved one needs you, and you are there � that should make you feel proud.

For more information on Assisted Living options contact Maria de la Guardia or Susan Reeder in Fulton and dekalb County at info@AssistedLiving-Atlanta GA.com or 404-592-0598.

About Atlanta : Atlanta was founded in 1837 as the end of the Western and Atlantic railroad line (it was first named Marthasville in honor of the then-governor's daughter, nicknamed Terminus for its rail location, and then changed soon after to Atlanta , the feminine of Atlantic -- as in the railroad).� Today the fast-growing city remains a transportation hub, not just for the country but also for the world: Hartsfield Atlanta International Airport is one of the nation's busiest in daily passenger flights.� Direct flights to Europe, South America, and Asia have made metro Atlanta easily accessible to the more than 1,000 international businesses that operate here and the more than 50 countries that have representation in the city through consulates, trade offices, and chambers of commerce.� The city has emerged as a banking center and is the world headquarters for 13 Fortune 500 companies."